Introduction
Welcome to the world of inquiry-based learning, where children’s natural curiosity takes center stage! As John Holt, the esteemed educator, once said, “Children are naturally wired to be curious, spontaneously inquire, asking questions, and exploring to understand the world they live in.” In this article, we will embark on an exciting journey to explore the wonders of inquiry-based learning.
Shifting Mindsets: From Teachers to Facilitators
Embracing Curiosity in the Classroom:
Picture this: a classroom buzzing with children’s curiosity and eagerness to learn. It all begins with a mindset shift. We need to move away from the traditional teacher-led approach and embrace the role of facilitators who nurture children’s natural curiosity.
As Dr. Sylvia Chard, an expert in early childhood education, points out, “Inquiry-based learning requires teachers to step back, observe, and listen to the children’s questions and ideas, creating an environment that nurtures their natural curiosity to learn.”
From Worksheets to Playful Exploration:
Let’s face it: unlike adults, children do not possess the ability to think abstractly (yet). So, they are able to comprehend and learn a lot better when they learn using all their senses. Whether its grammar concepts or science or math, seeing and doing makes the learning relatable and is not a bunch of abstract rules and instructions to learn by rote. By fostering learning through play and inquiry, we tap into their innate desire to explore and learn and gently nudge them to be lifelong learners for the joy of learning.
Guiding Growth: The Art of Scaffolding
Knowing When and How to Scaffold:
As facilitators, we play a vital role in guiding children’s learning journeys. Scaffolding comes into play here. It’s all about providing the right support at the right time.
Dr. Jerome Bruner, the influential cognitive psychologist, once said, “Scaffolding is the art of teaching by giving children just enough assistance to achieve learning goals they would not have achieved without help.” By recognizing when children are struggling and offering strategic support, we empower them to become independent learners.
Igniting Curiosity through Thought-Provoking Questions:
Now, let’s tap into the power of questions! We can fire up children’s minds and encourage deeper thinking by asking openended questions. Imagine their excitement
when we throw out a question like, “What do you think would happen if…?” or “How could we solve this problem?” As Dr. Neil Postman, an educational theorist, wisely noted, “Children are the most questioning beings on earth, and they should be encouraged to remain so throughout their lives.
Language of Play: Insights into Learning
Listening and Understanding Play:
Play, when it is not adult directed and driven with an agenda (what we call free play or true play), is the secret language of children, and it holds a wealth of insights into their interests, strengths, and areas for growth. By keenly observing children’s play, we gain valuable knowledge about their thought processes and learning styles. As Dr. David Elkind, a renowned child psychologist, emphasizes, “Play is not a trivial pursuit but rather an essential part of children’s healthy development.” Play is the method and learning is the outcome. So, let’s listen attentively to their play conversations, dive into their imaginative worlds, and use this understanding to create tailored learning experiences that ignite their passion for learning.
Bringing Inquiry- based learning to Academic Environments
Infusing Curiosity into academic learning:
Even in predominantly academic environments, we can infuse curiosity and inquiry into the curriculum. Imagine a science or math class where instead of simply memorizing formulas, children are encouraged to ask “why” questions and explore the underlying concepts. By incorporating inquiry-based methodologies into academic subjects, we provide children with a deeper understanding and a thirst for knowledge.
Prominent visionaries in education, John Dewey and John Holt, shared profound insights that continue to resonate today. John Dewey, the father of progressive education, believed in the power of experiential learning. He famously said, “Give the pupils something to do, not something to learn; and the doing is of such a
nature as to demand thinking; learning naturally results.” Dewey’s words highlight the importance of active engagement and critical thinking in the learning process.
Let’s honor their wisdom and unleash the full potential of inquiry-based learning in our classrooms.
Conclusion
Inquiry-based learning is a captivating journey that allows children to explore, question, and grow. By shifting our mindsets from being teachers to becoming facilitators, embracing play and curiosity, and scaffolding their learning, we empower children to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers. As Dr. Jerome Bruner once said, “We begin with the hypothesis that any subject can be taught effectively in some intellectually honest form to any child at any stage of development.” So, let’s embark on this adventure of inquiry-based learning, fostering curiosity, and igniting the joy of discovery in our children. Together, we can unlock their true potential and create a brighter future fueled by their innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
Happy Learning!
Pallavi Poojari Mohindra
Co-Founder, The Nurturant
About The Author
Pallavi is an early childhood professional who chose working with children over working with numbers. Her curiosity to know how the brain develops in early childhood & how our early experiences define our adult lives, drove her to found The Nurturant and Tinker Lab.
